Part 22 (2/2)

THE CHISERA

(_Sullenly, from her blanket._) I do not know. I did not look.

(_Letting fall her blanket and speaking proudly._) I had persuaded the Friend to give victory to the war leader. What should I care for the sticks? A day and a night I made medicine, and the sign was sure.

I said ”Simwa” and the G.o.ds confirmed it.

(_The Indians remain silent, but draw a little away from_ SIMWA.)

BRIGHT WATER

(_Rising and turning toward her._) Chisera, why should you make medicine for Simwa?

THE CHISERA

Chief's daughter, do not ask.

BRIGHT WATER

Chief's daughter I am, and wife of the war leader. Why should you concern yourself with his affairs?

THE CHISERA

(_After a pause, with great dignity._) Because he loved me.

INDIANS

Ah! Ah--ah! Ah!

SIMWA

(_Laughing._) The Friend of the G.o.ds has eaten rattleweed. Does a man love a wild woman who goes muttering and waving her arms, when she should be weaving and grinding meal? Would he take a wander-thought to his bed, and have witless children? Sooner I had a snake in my hut to run and tattle to the G.o.ds of me.

TAVWOTS

(_To_ PADAHOON.) Now, if it is true that he owes his fortune to the G.o.ds, they have deserted him, else he would not speak so to a jealous woman.

SIMWA

(_Looking long at the_ CHISERA, _haggard and unpainted, her blanket trailing, and then to the Chief's daughter, and back again, all the eyes of the campody following._) Is there any comeliness in a witch, that a man should desire her?

SEEGOOCHE

(_Alarmed._) Simwa, Simwa! If you have no care for yourself, at least remember my daughter!

SIMWA

(_Rising._) Have no care, mother. If I do not believe she can bless, neither do you believe that she can curse.

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